Solo

Dub FX, born Benjamin Stanford in Melbourne, Australia, is a globally renowned independent artist, producer, and live looping pioneer. Over the past 19 years, he has released six albums, sold over 250,000 records, and amassed more than 300 million YouTube views, all without the backing of commercial radio or TV. His rise to international recognition came through powerful street performances, blending beatboxing, looping, and conscious lyrics to create genre-defying music spanning dub, reggae, hip hop, drum and bass and beyond.

Known for his electrifying one-man shows, Dub FX uses his voice, loop stations, and effects pedals to build complex, multi-layered tracks live on stage, an experience that has captivated audiences across the world.

From his early beginnings in the alt-rock/rapcore band N.O.N, to becoming a viral sensation in 2008 with performances of “Love Someone” and “Flow,” Dub FX has remained fiercely independent. Through his label Convoyun.Ltd, he continues to collaborate with artists like Mr. Woodnote and Sirius, while maintaining complete artistic freedom.

Now based in Lisbon with his wife Sahida Apsara and their two daughters, Dub FX tours globally, using his music to spread messages of unity, empowerment and social consciousness.

We’re honoured to welcome this visionary artist to the HOPE Sussex stage, expect pure energy, deep vibrations,  and a live show like no other.

Dubfx.com

Saturday performance. 

Matt Hoy is a British singer-songwriter known for his smooth, soulful vocals and powerful stage presence. From 2010 to 2021, he toured the world as a vocalist with UB40 featuring Astro, contributing to the band’s chart-topping success and electrifying live shows.

Now carving out his own path, Matt has released acclaimed solo albums including Touch and Strong, blending reggae, soul, and pop with heartfelt authenticity. His uplifting track “Happy” won Best R&B Song at the World Songwriting Awards in 2019.

Leading his band House of Fyah, Matt brings feel-good rhythms and rich emotion to every performance, don’t miss his set at HOPE Sussex.

Monday performance. 

Amy True is a British-born, Irish-Ugandan poet, rapper, and singer-songwriter known for her powerful fusion of politicised hip hop, soul, and jazz. Emerging from the UK’s underground scene, she first gained prominence as part of Caxton Press, whose 2012 album Shame the Devil was named Best Hip Hop Album by Wordplay Magazine.

Her solo debut Eleven (2017) featured collaborations with renowned UK jazz artists including Nubya Garcia, Joe Armon-Jones, and Shabaka Hutchins. A fearless live performer, Amy has shared stages with hip hop legends like Public Enemy, Mos Def, and Immortal Technique, and has collaborated with artists such as Akala, Benjamin Zephaniah, and Asian Dub Foundation.

A core member of the People’s Army collective, Amy True is deeply committed to using her music as a force for social change. Her upcoming album STAY TRUE features collaborations with Congo Natty, Mighty Moe, and Liam Bailey, and continues her legacy of blending conscious lyrics with soulful, genre-crossing soundscapes.

Amy’s recent work with the all-female brass collective She’s Got Brass highlights her ongoing dedication to artistic innovation, collaboration, and community empowerment.

Sunday performance.

“I play music to make my life better, lighter, happier. Sing-and dance-along-vibes, is what i am aiming for in my quest for the magic sound, that grabs people by their souls and feet - music, simple enough to access and at the same time hard to ignore."

The Music of Baba Rai can be described as a World Pop Mix featuring elements from Rock, Blues, Country and Reggae on a profound basis: his message of compassion, joy, unity and peace. Baba Rai‘s lyrics in english, german and bavarian are soothing, consoling, encouraging or uplifting reminders.

By collaborating and playing with people from all over the Plane(t) like Burma and Thailand, Israel, Ghana, Senegal, Rumania and Hungary, Austria, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Great Britain, Canda, U.S.A., Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba and Hawai‘i, the met infl uences of all sorts of cultures and backgrounds found a cozy home in Baba Rai‘s spectrum of expression.

Over twenty years of touring and travelling on three continents, working as a professional on stage and in the studio with bands and artists like Depedro (Madrid), Meena and the Chris Fillmore Band (Vienna), Gareth Icke (Derby), The Fuzztones (New York), Die fantastischen 4 (Berlin), Larry Mullins (Iggy and the Stooges, Iggy Pop, The Residents, Nick Cave), Jim Fairchild (Grandaddy, Modest Mouse), Martin Wenk (Calexico, Nada Surf, Depedro), Jochen Arbeit (Einstürzende Neubauten) and Noa Winter Lazerus (Engineer for Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd, Stevie Wonder etc.), just to name a few, has above all expanded his awereness for brand new perspectives as well as for personal and artistic growth.

Over the decades, family life and dedication for his hometown community have gotten more and more weight by following his calling to help people realize, who we really are. This got manifested through 12 years of hosting a Jam Session, 5 years of running a private cultural center, 10 years of creating a childrens‘ tent on the local christmas market in a mongolian jurte and countless engagements as teacher and conducter of school groups in the field of music and empowerment.

His first full length album in English entitled  “For the best“ is in the making and will be released in 2026.

"I am deeply grateful to receive original thoughts and music, being therefore always in honor to the big mystery of the higher forces that hold the world together. Armed with an invincible belief in the good core in every human and being, i adress the listener and receiver of my expression, intention, frequency and power at eye-height and - what‘s even more relevant these days - at heart height.”

New song https://youtu.be/qEofSNG8IIc

Sunday performance.

Bella is a young vocalist with an impressive vocal range and the confidence to take on songs across every style and era. From classic favourites to modern hits, covers to original material, she brings versatility, personality, and real stage presence to every performance. A standout young talent, Bella always delivers a set full of energy, heart, and powerful vocals.

Sunday performance.

Benjamin White is a charismatic singer and entertainer based in East Sussex, known for his rich vocals and uplifting stage presence. A regular at HOPE Sussex events, Benjamin has become a beloved performer, captivating audiences with his classic covers and soulful energy.

With a distinctive style reminiscent of the great crooners, his performances blend charm, nostalgia, and heartfelt connection, bringing people together through the power of song.

Friday performance.

Brick Turpin is a UK folk singer-songwriter who brings the voices of working people to life through honest, acoustic storytelling. A tradesman writing songs about tradesmen—and anyone with an appreciation for authentic folk music—his songs celebrate everyday life with warmth, wit and sincerity.

Drawing on simple, earthy language rather than technical jargon, Brick's music feels timeless, relatable and deeply human. Armed with little more than his voice and an acoustic guitar, he creates stripped-back folk songs that carry powerful messages beneath their understated sound.

His music explores modern life, craftsmanship, community and the changing world around us, offering thoughtful reflections on everything from digital culture to the value of natural materials. Authentic, heartfelt and refreshingly genuine, Brick Turpin's performances leave audiences with songs that resonate long after the final note.

Saturday performance.

Monday performance.

Chris Harry Burns is a singer-songwriter based in London, known for his engaging performances and heartfelt song writing. One of Chris's proudest moments was to be the opening act for the very first HOPE music festival back in 2022.

With a music style lodged somewhere inbetween folk and rock n roll he has a touchh of dark humour running through his protest songs, many of which were played on the lockdown marches.

His performances are characterized by a warm stage presence and a commitment to authenticity, making him a cherished figure in the local music scene.

listen to Chris

Saturday performance. 

Inspeckta Veg is a London-based hip-hop and grime artist renowned for blending conscious lyricism with infectious energy. His breakout track, “Birds Eye Mums,” went viral on Instagram and TikTok, amassing over 8 million views and resonating with audiences for its raw authenticity and social commentary.

With a growing discography that includes tracks like “Get That Health,” “Resistance,” and “Health Is Wealth,” Inspeckta Veg continues to make waves in the UK music scene, using his platform to inspire and educate listeners.

inspecktaveg.com

Sunday performance. 

Jobey has been writing songs about freedom for the past four years. Her journey toward discovering her own voice began naturally while protesting in London, where she spent time alongside other artists, using music as a way to express ideas publicly. Jobey has a knack for finding humour in the absurd, and when paired with the playful sound of a ukulele, that light, comical energy shines through in her performances.

Sunday performance. 

Jol Rose is a Swindon-based singer-songwriter whose music blends gritty Americana, folk, and blues with a distinctly British edge. Drawing inspiration from artists like Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and Steve Earle—as well as punk, ska, and traditional folk—Jol’s songwriting explores themes of love, loss, resilience, and social justice. His debut album My Nebraska (2019) introduced his raw, heartfelt sound, followed by Welcome to Zombieland (2020), a lockdown project full of poignancy and grit. His 2023 album Peace Love Americana featured collaborations with Holly Carter, Jon Buckett, and Rachael Birkin, cementing his reputation for authenticity and lyrical depth.

In 2024, he released the powerful single “Liars & Thieves / Palestine, Free” ahead of his forthcoming 2025 album Liars & Thieves. With performances across the UK and Europe, Jol Rose continues to resonate with audiences through his honest voice and unwavering commitment to truth in music.

jolrose.com

Friday and Saturday performance.

Born and raised in South London, Kyron Murrell is a rapper and singer known for conscious lyrics that challenge perspectives and expand minds.  Fusing elements of rap, rock and reggae, Kyron Murrell delivers a different sound of rhythmic beats, soulful melodies, and impactful lyricism. The aim is to raise awareness, educate, raise the vibration of people and encourage unity between all.

Saturday performance.

The fool who shames the wise.

Sunday performance.

Metal Syd is a 15-year-old metal guitarist and singer, fronting her own band and delivering blistering live performances. The set is driven by heavy metal riffs and fast, guitar-led songs, built around classic metal covers, played with energy, discipline, and delivered with tight execution.

Already making a name for herself on the Midlands rock and metal scene, Metal Syd has been building a reputation through live shows that are earning attention on the Midlands rock and metal circuit.

Saturday performance.

Piano & Cello Duo

Paul and Helen have been performing together for eight years, creating beautiful, atmospheric music that blends expressive piano with rich, emotive cello.

Helen Thomas is a classically trained cellist who graduated with First Class Honours from Birmingham Conservatoire before completing her postgraduate studies at London’s Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Alongside her classical career, she has performed with an impressive list of artists including Ed Sheeran, Robbie Williams, Bryan Ferry, Gregory Porter, Burt Bacharach, Dionne Warwick, Billy Ocean, Status Quo, Wynton Marsalis and Joe Lovano. She is also a member of the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

Paul Gunn is a self-taught pianist and composer whose original music draws inspiration from the progressive rock movement of the early 1970s. He has performed at festivals and venues across the UK, including Rye International Jazz Festival, Twinwood Festival, Equinox Festival, The Pheasantry, 1901 Arts Club, Bristol Cathedral and HOPE Freedom Music Festival.

Together, Paul and Helen create captivating performances that weave together classical influences, contemporary composition and heartfelt improvisation, offering audiences an intimate and memorable musical experience.

Bandcamp: https://paulgunn.bandcamp.com/album/crystal-morning-2

Website: https://paulgunn.net/

YouTube: @paulgunnmusic

Sunday performance.

Peter Trott is a seasoned singer-songwriter and pianist from Kent, UK, with a musical career spanning over three decades. Since 1988, he has played in various bands, and since 2008, he has built a strong reputation as a solo artist known for his rich vocals, piano skills, and engaging live performances.

Peter’s repertoire spans classic hits from the 1960s to today, covering iconic artists such as The Beatles, David Bowie, Queen, Elton John, Billy Joel, Fleetwood Mac, and more. His heartfelt interpretations and unmistakable style have made him a standout performer in the local music scene.

A regular and firm favourite at HOPE Sussex events, Peter’s performances are always met with warmth, familiarity, and enthusiastic sing-alongs. Whether he’s playing a stripped-back acoustic set or a rousing festival slot, his connection with audiences is unmistakable.

In 2024, Peter released his original single “Jagadambe,” a testament to his enduring passion for music and creative evolution. With decades of experience and a genuine love for performance, Peter Trott continues to uplift and inspire through every note.

petertrott.co.uk

Sunday performance.

Roger Hubbard is a celebrated British blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter, widely regarded as one of the UK’s foremost exponents of slide guitar and Delta blues. Born in Brighton in 1950, he began performing in local folk clubs at the age of 15. In 1968, he founded a blues club above The Lewes Arms in Sussex, which became a hub for prominent blues artists such as Jo Ann Kelly, Dave Kelly, and Tony McPhee.

Hubbard’s debut album, Brighton Belle Blues, was recorded in 1970 for Nick Perls’ U.S. label Blue Goose Records. His authentic slide guitar style drew high praise; Muddy Waters once remarked, “Roger Hubbard is as good as any blues guitarist in the UK or the United States.”

Throughout his career, Hubbard has released several albums, including Danger Deep Mud (2003), Out of My Hands (2007), and If I Had a Dollar (2016), the latter featuring collaborations with musicians like Jon Cleary and Andy Newmark. His song “Home Lovin’ Man” was covered by Eric Bibb on the 2003 album Natural Light.

Beyond his musical pursuits, Hubbard is also a skilled craftsman, designing and building his own electric resonator guitar, known as “The Hub,” and restoring antique furniture and instruments.

A respected figure in the blues community, Hubbard continues to perform at venues and festivals across the UK, captivating audiences with his soulful playing and deep-rooted blues heritage.

rogerhubbard.co.uk

Friday performance.

Sahida Apsara is a multifaceted artist, poet, and musician of Indian and Malay heritage, born in Singapore and raised in Australia. Her creative journey has taken her across the globe, from dancing in Havana to performing spoken word poetry in Brooklyn, infusing her work with a rich tapestry of cultural influences and life experience.

A passionate advocate for social justice, feminine empowerment, and community, Sahida’s artistry is deeply rooted in themes of identity, motherhood, resilience, and healing. Her award-winning work has earned her the Victorian Government’s Multicultural Award for Excellence, and she was a recipient of a UNESCO City of Literature grant for her contribution to community arts and education. She has curated women-led poetry events and initiated creative fundraising projects in support of disenfranchised women around the world.

Musically, Sahida blends reggae, hip-hop, soul, and spoken word to create an uplifting and thought-provoking sound. She has released powerful collaborations with her husband, internationally renowned artist Dub FX (Benjamin Stanford), including tracks like “Radiant Star” and “Pull Up.” Her upcoming album Prayer for My Daughters (2025) features collaborations with artists such as Awa Fall, Saritah, and Masia One, offering a heartfelt celebration of womanhood, healing, and ancestral strength.

Now based in Lisbon with Benjamin and their two daughters, Sahida also leads “Jiggle Jam”, a music and movement program that nurtures creativity in young children. Through her poetry, music, and education, Sahida continues to inspire connection, consciousness, and empowerment on both a personal and global scale.

Monday performance.

Trevor John is a multifaceted British artist whose creative journey spans music, illustration, animation, and voice work. A gifted singer-songwriter, Trevor creates music that is both emotionally raw and sharply satirical, often reflecting on the absurdities of modern life while exploring deeper spiritual and societal themes.

His artistic roots trace back to the vibrant energy of Carnaby Street, where he once owned a shop before moving into roles as a copywriter, voice artist, and award-winning short film composer. As an illustrator, he has worked with major publishers and brands including the BBC, Saatchi & Saatchi, and Sainsbury’s. His designs for M&S nightwear even appeared on the iconic TV show EastEnders, highlighting his broad creative reach.

After years immersed in the corporate world, Trevor took a sabbatical to reconnect with his passion for music. He dedicated two years to refining his guitar skills and studied voice under a unique Irish vocal coach. This marked the beginning of his rebirth as a musical storyteller, blending poetic lyricism with rich, resonant melodies.

His releases include the 2022 EP Fish Outa Water, the 2024 single He Ain’t My King, the 2025 track Ballad of a Toolmaker’s Son and more recently Painting the Sky. Trevor’s music resonates with those seeking authenticity, insight, and a voice that isn’t afraid to question the status quo. Trevor's album The Facepalm Years will be released this July.

trevorjohnmusic.com

Friday performance.

Wendy Jane, co organiser of Sounds Beautiful Festival and Outlandish band member is a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and performer. Her heartfelt performances blend rich vocals, honest storytelling, and a genuine love of live music. Wendy plays harp, flute, guitar, and piano, and creates a distinctive and captivating sound, drawing inspiration from folk, world and of course the freedom movement.

Known for creating an intimate connection with her audience when playing solo Wendy Jane brings every lyric to life with sincerity and emotion.. in her own words.

Friday performance.